Chimay

Located at the edge of the Fagne and the Thiérache regions, Chimay is famous for its castle built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Eau Blanche river.

Constructed in late Renaissance style, it originally belonged to the de Croÿ family, and was passed on in 1804 to a member of the Riquet de Caraman family, a descendant of Pierre-Paul Riquet, who built the Midi Canal, and was also a relative of the legendary Mirabeau.

Today, the princess herself sometimes takes visitors on guided tours and opens the doors of the superb Italian-style theatre where concerts are still occasionally held.

The Grand-Place and the Collegiate Church ofSt Pierre and St Paul give the town a dignity all of its own.

Nature lovers will enjoy the numerous walking trails in the forest and the surrounding countryside. And if you enjoy bird-watching, Lake Virelles is only a stone's throw away.

Nevertheless, Chimay is chiefly known for the nearby Notre-Dame de Scourmont Abbey where the Cistercian Trappist monks make the internationally famous Chimay Trappist beers and cheeses.